Intermediate Football – Page 8

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 32 – Sat 9 Apr) [EAL 21-22 11.4.22]

Image from Woodford East v Chadwell Heath Spartans [Image by Scott W]

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 9 April

DIVISION TWO CUP

The first half of the line-up for the Division Two Cup Final is now confirmed after the weekend’s action as Rainham Working Mens Club made up for their other semi defeat to go through to this final with a 1 – 0 win away at Loughton Lions at Debden Park. The only goal of the game was scored by Charlie Perry whose goal took Rainham through to their fourth final with the competition.

DIVISION THREE CUP

In the Division Three Cup quarter-final, the third of four semi-finalists was confirmed in as two of the division’s top sides, Royal Forest Reserves and FC Baresi Under 23s, met in Hainault for a place in the last four. The visitors, Baresi, were in good form once again as they rattled in a 5 – 1 victory with Joshua Adu scoring three alongside Harrez Aliane and Kii Jean-Baptiste scoring one apiece, overcoming a Will Asenso goal from the hosts.

DIVISION FOUR CUP

It was semi-final day for two clubs in the Division Four Cup competition where Chingford Harriers were the hosts to an Emerson & Upminster A side with both sides keen on a cup final appearance. A close game finished 1 – 1 with Darnell Lamothe netting for Harriers and Carl Holroyd for Emerson in reply. A dreaded shootout was needed to separate the sides and it was Harriers who won that 4 – 3 to take their place in the final next month.

SENIOR DIVISION

The last week has seen some big results in the Senior Division with Wednesday night’s action having seen Woodford East secure all three points from a trip to Cricklefields where they were facing Lymore Gardens. Adam Tabbani and Connor Brathwaite both scored twice for East with Gracia Muhemba and Teriq Roberts goals accounting for the Garden consolations in a 4 – 2 East success. NonLeague writer Peter Dudley was among those in attendance and here’s his report: https://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/lymore-gardens-2-woodford-east-4.html

On Saturday, the leadership of the division changed hands once again with DT FC taking advantage of results around them to go a point clear with a game in hand, coming out 4 – 1 winners away at Tower United. Alex Paraskeva scored twice with Izaih Antoine and Robbie Farrell grabbing the other goals to move back to the summit with three games to play. Just a few hundred yards away at the Marshes, another huge game saw Chadwell Heath Spartans in town to face hosts Woodford East. First-half Woodford goals from Callum Maltese and Connor Brathwaite proved pivotal in a 2 – 1 victory for them, despite an Aaron Hunwicks effort for Spartans, as East brought themselves very much into an intriguing three-way title race.

The Non-League writing duo of Scott W and Pete Dudley were both at this match, you can view their respective reports on the game here:

Scott W: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/04/09/s21-22-match-report-woodford-east-2-1-chadwell-heath-spartans-sat-9-apr-eal/

Peter D: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/woodford-east-2-chadwell-heath-spartans.html

Elsewhere in the Senior division, Blue Marlin’s late’s charge to safety is underway as they pulled off a terrific 3 – 1 success at home to fourth placed Lymore Gardens to give them a great chance of beating the drop. Macauley Harrington, Ni Acquaye and Scott Campbell all found the back of the net to help their side pick up some vital points, moving three clear of the side beneath them.

CSM London’s penultimate game of the season saw them take on FC Baresi, the game switched to Beckton. Bradley Soares’ effort had appeared to be enough to hand CSM a vital points haul of their own but for a late FC Baresi leveller to take the gloss off the performance somewhat, earning them a point in a 1 – 1 draw. CSM now sit five points above the relegation places with one last fixture to come.

In Hainault, Chigwell Town were in action against Rapid Chingford knowing that they desperately needed points on the board to move closer to safety but ended up on the wrong end of a five goal thriller as Rapid took all three points in a 3 – 2 success. Joe Creasey and Harry Tew-Robinson struck for Town but two Darwin Romero goals and a Tita Daniel goal sent the points home with the visitors. The division’s remaining game saw two sides comfortably in mid-table meet with seventh placed Kit Out London travelling to East Ham to take on fifth placed Jolof Sports. Papa Ndiaye scored twice for Jolof, a feat matched by Marlon Ortiz of Kit Out as the teams finished level at 2 – 2 to add a further point to each other’s tallies, Jolof remaining eleven points clear of their opponents.

PREMIER DIVISION

Following their recent confirmation of promotion, it’s now fully party time for Frenford A who wrapped up the league title outright with a 2 – 1 away success in their penultimate game of the season. London Cranes were the side on the wrong end of the result, Wisley Baltazar scoring both of the goals to put the gloss on a very fine season for the Ilford based side who will move up to Step 7 with confidence.

DIVISION ONE

Ilford Reserves’ late promotion charge continued on Saturday as they were able to take maximum points against Cowley Community, though the latter do still have plenty of games in hand to change that situation. The Foxes secured a 5 – 2 win as Luke Newbury-Neale scored two and one each from Rhys Clements, Rio Clements and Joseph Sulola, Chris Wright bagging both goals in reply for Cowley. Fifth placed Wanstead ensured they stayed in touch with the promotion matters with two games left to play, picking up all three points in their game against Renegades at the weekend, the latter’s final game of the campaign. A 4 – 2 success for Wanstead thanks to strikes from Zoltan Balogh, Jake Nicolas, Suhaib Abeid and Dan Gardner as they consolidated a top half finish with their tenth win of the campaign while Renegades must now wait to see if they can avoid the drop.

Something From Nothing also sit in a top half position with a couple of games to go as they won a local derby fixture against Forest Green in a 5 – 3 scoreline. That confirmed SFN’s eighth league success of their maiden season in Saturday football and know that one more win will be enough to finish sixth. Forest Green’s season is now over as they also keep an eye on events below them. Third placed RC XI will go into their last two games knowing that promotion is still a possibility but lost the chance to take full advantage of slips around them as they were only able to take a point from their twentieth game of the season, held by seventh placed Newham Wanderers. The sides went into the game with an eleven point gap but that remained the same as the game finished 2 – 2. Stephen Duberry and Michael Temitayo both scored for RC in this one.

A much improved campaign for Kwanzas London Sport is reaching a conclusion and the seventh placed side were up against relegation threatened Barkingside A at the weekend. ‘Side goals from Ebenezer Gyamerah and Jeffrey Osei kept them in the game but Kwanzas edged it by full-time to take a 3 – 2 win meaning they can finish no lower than eighth now.

DIVISION TWO

The race to avoid the drop in Division Two is really hotting up after the weekend’s results as St Francis had a day to remember, taking maximum points from a double header against third placed Emerson & Upminster Reserves. They edged the first contest 4 – 3, overcoming a Tobi Onafeko hat-trick with two from Abdullah Azizi and one each for Martin Valkov and Soumen Nandi. Game two saw Saints record an emphatic 6 – 1 success with Theo Jacobs-Aaron netting a hat-trick, Skye Salmon scoring two and Soumen Nandi rounding off a great day. They now sit just two points from safety with five games to play.

Over in Loughton, second placed Unitey were another leading side to drop points against lower opposition as they were held to a 2 – 2 draw against Ryan Under 23s who continued their late season charge with a point in their final game of the campaign. Bubintende Masadi scored both of the Unitey goals to keep his side in with a chance of a top two finish with one game to go.

DIVISION THREE

Old Barkabbeyans Reserves are the first side to confirm promotion from Division Three this season as they collected the points they needed from their penultimate game, defeating Together United in a comprehensive 8 – 2 scoreline. Michael Ryder scored a hat-trick, Geovany Cruz and Jay Elliott both scored two with Mitchell Day finishing it off ahead of a possible title play-off game next weekend. The day’s other game was of equal entertainment as an in-form Buckhurst Way saw the visit of Terin to Bancrofts on Saturday. The hosts trailed 4-2 going into the latter stages of the game through Terin doubles from Alex Thomas and Jabir Malik, along with a Fahad Abdallah single. But they found a “Way” to take a point with the game finishing 5 – 5 incredibly.

DIVISION FOUR

In Division Four, the final game in the division this season saw Sporting Pillars go into their clash at Avondale Rangers knowing that a point or more would be enough to seal the title. Jake Clarke and Phillip Heinan netted for Rangers but those efforts were not enough to prevent Sporting winning the game 6 – 2, sealing the league title in the process. Congratulations to all involved with the team on their achievement!

End

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 9 Apr) [EOFL 21/22 11.4.22]

Archive Image – Wakering Sports v Runwell Sports last month in D1

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 9 April. The focus this week is on the League action and the additional sections on Divisions Four & Five remain in place with their campaigns coming to a conclusion. Thank you for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 9 April

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the Premier Division, Leigh Ramblers got a key 2 – 1 win over relegation rivals Canning Town to keep them four points clear of the bottom three. Nathan Dewberry got both goals for Mark Hunter’s team. The Rams open the midweek matches in the EOFL this week with the visit of Springfield to Belfairs. Kelvedon Hatch deepened Harold Wood Athletic’s concerns of the drop as Hatch won 4 – 1 at New Hall. Drew Klessa-Smith got another two goals to take his tally to 17 this term, which was allied with strikes by substitutes Tom Johnson & Darren Jiro to give Darren Hunt’s side the points. Tim Hinds-Addow also got a goal for Ath after coming off the bench. Galleywood are still requiring points after they lost to Hutton 2- 1 at Slades Lane. The ever-dependable duo of Brad Freeman and Will Marlowe both netted for Matt Singh’s side as they kept pace with the top three above them. Matthew Crick replied for ‘Wood though they have seven matches to overhaul Leigh Ramblers and Springfield directly above them.

At the summit, Basildon Town got a 2 – 0 triumph over Catholic Utd with Jamie Bradbourn and Ryan Scougall’s fine free-kick proving enough to give Marcus Bowers’ side the points and reduce the gap to the top two to just one point with at least one match more to play. Utd remain sixth with Sungate their main rivals for that spot after they comfortably defeated Springfield 6 – 0 in NE London. Finally, Rayleigh Town maintained their good form with a 4 – 0 away win at Shenfield AFC. Harry Talbot is the division’s top-scorer now with 19 goals this term after a double here. Liam Oliver and Jack Long also netted for Paul Higgins’ team as they for the moment went top, above Ongar on goal difference, having played a game more.

News: It was announced this week that Basildon Town are leaving their current tenancy at Basildon Utd, with Marcus Bowers’ side having agreed to ground-share at Step 3 team East Thurrock Utd next season.

In Division One, there was a shift in the dynamics in the promotion race as Epping Town defeated second-placed Toby 4 – 3 at Epping UC Rugby Club. Stuart Hoskins’ side put in a big display to ensure a mid-table finish thanks to Joe Rickett’s 10th league goal this term, plus strikes from Callum Turner, Chris Gormley and Conor Corrigan. Mark Jones’ team replied through goals from Albert Perry, Nick Walk and Jake Jones but they ended their season here in the knowledge that if Wakering Sports win by six goals in their last game, the latter side will be promoted.

Toby’s loss also confirmed Runwell Sports as Champions of the Division, so again congrats to Rob Hodgson, all his management team and the squad. Wakering Sports did their part on Saturday as they had three second-half goals to thank for a 3 – 0 victory at Corinthians. The substitutes made the difference here as two goals for Mohammed Sesay and one from Callum Burns-Green were enough to claim the win. Finally, Leigh Town drew 2 – 2 with Beacon Hill Rovers at John Burrows Rec, which means both sides will likely need to avoid defeat in their last game to avoid a bottom-two finish.

Moving into Division Two now, leaders ACD Utd fell to only their third loss of the season as Manford Way won 1 – 0 at Westlands. James Dobson got the vital goal for Manford as they stayed three points adrift of second-placed Harold Hill. ACD need four points from their last two games to complete the job with yet another title. Harold Hill stay second after a 3 – 0 triumph over Old Southendian Res at Noak Hill – it is most likely that one win in their last two matches will confirm promotion as they have a superior goal difference to the teams below them.

Elsewhere, Harold Wood Athletic Res held Wakebury to a 3 – 3 draw at Harold Wood Park. Ben Rowe got two goals here while Josh Portway also scored for Steve Hubbard’s team, who are pretty much safe from the bottom two now. Harry Kateley, Kofi Gyamfi and Ibrahim Kagbanda all scored in reply for Matt Cardy’s side but it seems most likely they will finish fourth after a fine debut campaign at this level.

Also, Shoebury Town ended their season with a positive 3 – 1 win over Rochford Town at Cupid’s. Garry Johnson’s side sit fifth with aspirations of a better season next term with their youthful squad. Rochford will likely finish bottom, with only one match left to play later this month – at Wakebury. Finally, Rayleigh Town Res defeated Hutton Res 3 – 1 at London Road, which means Town could finish seventh and Hutton’s second-side still needing points from their remaining two games to avoid a bottom-two finish.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three, Toby Res went up to sixth after a 2 – 0 victory over Hullbridge Res in the early kick-off in Newbury Park. Oliver Dingli went joint-top in the lead goal-scorers charts with 23 league goals after a brace here for the hosts, congrats to Ollie on another fine season. ‘Bridge will finish no better than eighth this season after this loss. In the other result, Wakering Sports Res got a hard-fought 3 – 2 win at Leigh Town Res which takes them top of the table, in a tight promotion race.

Moving into Division Four, Springfield Res had a super 7 – 0 success at home to Sungate Dev to put them five points clear in second spot. The Sungate side need at least five points from their last five matches to avoid a bottom-two finish. Also in the relegation battle are Leytonstone Utd, who ended their campaign with a 2 – 2 draw with Shenfield AFC Res. The draw means that Utd will have to await other results as both Galleywood Res & Sungate Development have several matches left to play.

In Division Five, Collier Row Res ended their season with a fine 3 – 1 win at Snaresbrook Res, with Nicholas George, Harry Potts and Raheem Bravo all on target to ensure they will finish the campaign no worse than seventh. Snaresbrook have one match left to play and can finish sixth with a win. Also, Herongate Athletic Res drew 0 – 0 with Pitsea Athletic Res at Billericay Road, which means that the PItsea side will finish third and Herongate fourth, as they both have one match remaining.

EOFL Cups

EOFL Reserve Lge Cup

Hashtag Utd Dev 2 – 3 Buckhurst Hill U23

EOFL Res Lge Trophy

Ongar Town Res p2 – 2 Catholic Utd Res (Ongar won 5 – 4 on pens)

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Match Report: Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans (Sat 9 Apr) [EAL 21-22 9.4.22]

Essex Alliance League – Senior Division

Venue: Hackney Marshes (Show Pitch)

Attendance: 15 [Est]

2021-22 Season: Match 69

Saturday 9th April 2022 -2pm KO

Woodford E: Navy Blue Shirts, White Shorts, Navy Blue Socks

CH Spartans: Grey Shirts, Grey Shorts, Black Socks

Action still from the match [Image by Scott W]

Woodford East put in diligent performance to claim big win over Spartans

Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans

Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

The weekend match was a rare match in the Essex Alliance League Senior Division and a first visit to Hackney Marshes for this top-of-the-table clash between Woodford East and Chadwell Heath Spartans. The matches are unrelenting for Halil Hassan’s side just now and they fielded Callum Drummond in goal, with Billy Barr and Matt Stacey in central defence, Frank Glock skippering the side alongside Eren Mehmet in central midfield and the forward line was led by Callum Maltese and Connor Brathwaite. Spartans started the day at the summit but needed points to stay there, and fielded the highly-rated Lewis Edwards in goal, with a defence of Joe Robb, Meer Ishanzadeh, player-boss Aaron Hunwicks and Janel Alexander, who also captained the side. James Odukoya and Harry Payne led the attack, with Tom Callagher among those in support.

The match began in the swirling wind of East London, though the chances were relatively few in coming early-doors. Spartans had the only clear chance whch saw forward James Odukoya one-on-one with East stopper Callum Drummond, unfortunately for the visitors, Odukoya’s strike was straight at the goalkeeper. Woodford East responded tellingly soon after as on thirteen minutes, visiting skipper Janel Alexander was caught in possession by rapid forward Callum Maltese on the edge of his own 18-yard area and Maltese ran through on goal and placed a fine finish past Sans goalkeeper Lewis Edwards and into the right-sided corner.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the hosts were spurred on by that opening goal and they showed no lack of energy or good passing as they kept the pressure on their opponents’ backline. Midfielder Eren Mehmet’s strike was deflected and well-tipped over by Edwards as it was dipping into the net. Spartans were finding it difficult to maintain the momentum in attack, though Harry Payne did strike wide of Drummond’s goal frame as we headed towards the half-hour mark.

Tom Callagher [#8] jostles with East’s Connor Brathwaite [#23] as Spartans look to push forward [Image by Scott W]

That half-hour was heralded by arguably the best move of the match, which saw East exchange three or four fast passes before finding forward Connor Brathwaite who struck a fine low finish into the corner of the net, adding to the visitors’ headache. Being fair, the hosts did not concede possession easily and when they lost it, they hurried the Spartans midfield well.

Half-Time: Woodford East 2 – 0 Chadwell Heath Spartans

After a quick break, the match resumed with Woodford East looking for that important third goal to really put themselves in a commanding position. They had two good chances early in the half, with Brathwaite firstly well denied by Edwards from close range. Soon afterwards, the East forward was well-placed again from barely six yards out but somehow Brathwaite headed narrowly over the upright. You felt that Spartans had used up a fair bit of fortune by not conceding a third goal there but to their credit, they were up for the battle in the second period.

The visitors did have more ball time in the last half hour, as they sought to jostle their way back into the match. Their approach play was decent but if you was to be critical, you’d have to also say they couldn’t create many chances. Alexander and Aaron Hunwicks both had chances from set-pieces but late on, the Spartans did ensure a nervy last five minutes for East. Direct from a corner, Hunwicks sent in an in-swinging corner which got caught up in the wind and managed to find its way past Drummond into the net.

Spartans did push on to try and force a leveller but in fairness, East did do enough to claim a narrow but nonetheless important triumph to fortify third spot with two games in hand on new leaders DT FC, who won 4 – 1 at Tower Utd today.

Full-Time: Woodford East 2 – 1 Chadwell Heath Spartans

In summary, Woodford East did the damage in an energetic first-half display which showed their credentials as a really good side at this level here, but found it a rather harder battle in the second period, where Spartans showed more of what they are about, showing guile, work rate and dedication. Unfortunately for Aaron Hunwicks’ side, they couldn’t quite create enough chances to test East stopper Callum Drummond.

There were several fine performances from both sides in this match. Firstly for victors Woodford East, plaudits have to go to tricky forward Callum Maltese for an excellent display of energy, pace and passing. Fellow forward Callum Brathwaite also took his goal well to cap a terrific team move and could have had at least one more goal today, showing good movement. Rounding out the mentions are full-back Kai Law who showed good work rate, passing and concentration plus centre-back Billy Barr who also put in a good display to restrict the Spartans forward line.

For Chadwell Heath Spartans, skipper Janel Alexander had another good game at centre-back, recovering from a uncharacteristic error to make several good interceptions in the match. Tom Callagher again showed good energy making darting runs from midfield to assist his forward line. Goalkeeper Lewis Edwards also made two good saves to keep his team in it in the first half when they did concede several chances at his goal. Lastly, forward James Odukoya also worked hard to bypass a robust East defence, alongside strike partner Harry Payne who also put in a lot of effort today.

Best wishes to both sides for the remainder of the season.

Callagher about to take a free-kick in a dangerous position for Spartans [Image by Scott W]

Teams (up to 5 substitutes allowed)

Woodford East | Manager: Halil Hassan |

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Callum Drummond (GK), 3 Kai Law, 9 Billy Barr, 4 Matt Stacey, 19 Eren Mehmet (68 Liam Adams 74’), 14 Will Letchford, 15 Frank Glock (Capt), 21 Sonny Feltwell (6 Kieran Bruns 59’), 5 Adam Tabbani, 23 Connor Brathwaite, 12 Callum Maltese

Goal-scorers: Callum Maltese [13’], Connor Brathwaite [30’]

Subs Not Used: Beaumont, Tibbitts, Gilley | Booked: Mehmet, Tabbani

Chadwell Heath Spartans | Player-Manager: Aaron Hunwicks

Starting XI (Subs): 1 Lewis Edwards (GK), 2 Joe Robb, 3 Meer Ishanzadeh, 5 Janel Alexander (Capt), 6 Aaron Hunwicks, 4 Leon Kasozi, 14 Rashid Matabaro (17 Samir Aboulainaf 79’), 7 Raymond Hunwicks (15 Harry Goodwin 57’), 8 Thomas Callagher (11 David Amire 77’), 9 James Odukoya (10 Tommy Harrison 68’), 16 Harry Payne

Goal-scorer: Aaron Hunwicks [84’]

Subs Not Used: None | Booked: Robb, Kasozi | Sin-Bin: Alexander [87’]

Referee: Nathan Buckle

Assistants: Daniel Rowan & Dylan Connolly

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 31 – Sat 2 Apr) [EAL 21-22 4.4.22]

Chadwell Heath Spartans about to grab another goal this weekend [Image Credit: CH Spartans/ @ABridgeTooFar16]

Hello and welcome to the latest action from the Essex Alliance League, which continues on this blog this season under the “Guest Blog” strand. This edition looks at the action across the League divisions and action in the respective Divisional Cups on Saturday 2 April. My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission. Thanks for reading. Image used is thanks to CH Spartans / @ABridgeTooFar16, Used with thanks.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 2 April

COUNTY CUP FINAL

The Essex Saturday Junior Trophy reached its conclusion on Friday evening at Heybridge Swifts where Cowley Community represented the league against Mid Essex side, Haver Town Reserves. Cowley started strongly but failed to convert early chances, enabling Haver to get a foothold in the game and took a solid 3 – 0 lead into the break, thanks to goals from Harry Andreetti (2) and Luke Dallison’s opener. Cowley started strongly again in the second half and cut the deficit down to just one with efforts from Wright and Taylor, leaving around twenty minutes to go. But Haver responded well to those setbacks and comfortably held on to win the game 3 – 2, despite the valiant efforts of Cowley.

DIVISION TWO CUP

The line-up for the Division Two Cup semi-finals was completed on Saturday afternoon as Emerson & Upminster Reserves took their place in the last four after winning 4 – 1 at Old Esthameians. Billy Biggs was in great form, netting a hat-trick for his side, while Tobi Onafeko also struck to put the Upminster side just ninety minutes away from a possible final. They now face Unitey in the semi-final.

DIVISION THREE CUP

There were two ties in the Division Three Cup where a shock was seen in the first round game between hosts Melbourne Sports and Buckhurst Way in Hainault. Despite an eight point gap in between the sides in the table, it was Way who progressed on to the quarter-finals, winning 6 – 1 to book a trip to Old Barkabbeyans Reserves in the last eight. There was also a big shock in the quarter-final tie completed over the weekend as sixth placed Together United were eliminated from the competition on the back of a defeat to ninth placed ASA, despite the latter being fourteen points and three places behind their opponents. A 0 – 0 draw saw the sides finish level at ninety minutes before ASA held their nerve to win the shootout 7-6.

SENIOR DIVISION

There were big wins for all of the top ranked Senior clubs ahead of a crucial run of games for all sides, Chadwell Heath Spartans remaining top of the standings by two points as they put seven goals past FC Petrocub in Chigwell. Elie Fanga scored twice coupled with further strikes from Tom Callagher, Harry Payne, Samir Aboulainaf and manager Aaron Hunwicks to complete that 7 – 0 success. DT FC sit just behind Spartans with a game in hand as they completed a solid victory of their own with a 5 – 0 home win against Chigwell Town at the Harlow Arena. Billy Jones, Cory Ugbomah, Alex Paraskeva, Izaih Antoine and Jacob Melford all found the back of the net for the hosts to ensure they remain the side with everything in their hands.

Third placed Lymore Gardens also racked up another win, making it twelve for the season with a 3 – 0 home success at the County Ground against CSM London. Dylan Roberts, Andre Rashford and Gracia Muhemba were the men to notch for Garden to keep them well in the mix at the business end of the league table. Sitting just a point further back from Garden are Woodford East who can still make a major impact on the title race with a busy April ahead and they started their month with a 5 – 0 win against Rapid Chingford at Lakeside. Two Connor Brathwaite goals plus one each from Matthew Stacey, Adam Tabbani and Jack Smith helped East to a comfortable winning scoreline with seven league games still to go.

Jolof Sports still sit fifth and made it ten league wins for the season on Saturday as they ran out 3 – 1 home winners against bottom of the table Tower United at Flanders. A goal apiece from Joshua Kweifio-Okai, Khadim Mbacke and Papa Ndiaye were enough for the hosts to take the points home with them and keep Tower trailing safety by three points. A huge game in the context of the relegation fight took place at Fairlop Oak where eleventh placed Blue Marlin were in home action against eighth placed Kit Out London knowing how vital points are for both clubs. A five goal thriller saw Kit Out edge the game 3 – 2, Lewis Jacobs scoring twice and Yasin Zougui once to all but seal their place in the top flight one again while Marlin’s place remains in the balance.

PREMIER DIVISION

Top of the table Frenford A will be celebrating as they confirmed promotion to the Senior Division on Saturday with results going their way and their own success earning a 3 – 0 home win against local rivals London Park City. Isima Iguisi scored a brace and Joel Opara netted the other to confirm their ascent to the top flight while a win in their next game will ensure they go up as champions. Oakside are now the only side that can catch the leaders mathematically and they faced a tough London Cranes side at Fairlop Oak in the sunshine on Saturday knowing they had to win to keep up the pressure. And a win was what they walked away with, defeating Cranes 1 – 0 to make it nine victories for the season, with four games left to play in their chase for promotion.

An entertaining game at Peter May rounds off the Premier Division action where Athletic Newham Under 23s were the visitors to Walthamstow to take on a promotion chasing Crookz United side, the latter knowing that victory was vital if they were to challenge for top spot. But the sides had to settle for a point apiece as the game ended in a 3 – 3 draw.

DIVISION ONE

It was a glorious afternoon for Belfry who took the Division One title in dramatic fashion on Saturday coming from 3-1 down in their first game against Newham Wanderers to win it 4 – 3 late on, sealing the title. Solomon Ogunwomoju struck twice with Lewis Warren and Kieran James scoring the others to seal the points they needed. In game two, a rather more sedate affair saw a narrow win once again as Ryan O’Connell scored the only goal of the game for Belfry to win 1 – 0.

The focus now turns to the race for promotion where Ilford Reserves saw their quest put in doubt, going down to a 2 – 1 away defeat against Something From Nothing at the Flats. The Foxes remain second with two games to go but games in hand for others may well cost them while SFN were able to move into the top half on the back of that result and others around them.RC XI have thrown themselves back into the promotion mix, moving up to third at the weekend as they defeated eighth placed Kwanzas London Sport over at Belhus Park. Tobi Alabi, Michael Temitayo and Tosin Blacky goals were enough to seal the points in a 3 – 0 win, the hosts’ eleventh success of their maiden season.

Wanstead have all but assured themselves of a top half finish in their first season as a club after they recorded a solid 2 – 0 home win in their game against Forest Green at the Flats on Saturday. Their ninth of the season while taking their points tally to thirty-one for the season. Eleventh placed Barkingside A have given themselves the best chance of avoid the drop this season as they took a vital three points against fellow relegation threatened Renegades in Wanstead. Side were 3 – 1 winners at Nutter Lane, recording win number four and moving to within six points of their opponents with five games in hand.

DIVISION TWO

It’s Fairlop Rovers who remain top of the pile in Division Two entering the penultimate month of the season and they will have been pleased with their efforts on Saturday, defeating rivals Loughton Lions in a 5 – 1 scoreline in Hainault. Sam Beaman opened the scoring, setting the platform for Harry Oliver and Logan Simmonds to both score twice in a big victory. Second placed Unitey remain the closest to Rovers but with just two games to go, following a thumping 6 – 0 away win in Hainault on Saturday, defeating FHN Athletic. Unitey goals from Matthew Surry, Nathan Lupumba, Romario Christian, Matthew Pitchford, Mohammed Abaker and Ahmed Dousa were plenty enough to earn their side the points.

An incredible game at Wanstead Flats saw St Francis and Ryan Under 23s combined for an eleven-goal thriller with attacks certainly dominating an open game. It was the visitors who ultimately prevailed in this incredible game, Ryan winning it 6 – 5 to move into the top half of the table for the first time this season, in their penultimate game of the campaign. Michael Bryan and Kemar Bello both netted twice for Ryan here, with Mekhi Charles-Armstrong & Adam Sodimu also scoring. Skye Salmon got two goals for St Francis, with their other scorers being Omar Hafid, Peter Luvualu and Theo Jacobs-Aaron.

The goals were also flying in down at Roding Valley where hosts Royal Forest were in home action against Newbury East. While not yet mathematically certain of survival, Forest have all but done enough now you feel to stave off the drop as they won the game 4 – 0 to record win number eight for the season.

DIVISION FOUR

The penultimate game of the Division Four season took place over the weekend where Avondale Rangers were the hosts to a Dagenham United Reserves side in Loughton with Rangers holding a vital say in the title race. Chris Harper scored for Rangers with Josh Michaels netting for Dagenham in a 1 – 1 draw, with next week’s fixture between Rangers and Sporting Pillars deciding the destination of the league title.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 2 Apr) [EOFL 21/22 4.4.22]

Archive Image – Matt Tonking [#9] steps up to take FK for OS v Hutton

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 2 April. The focus this week is on the League action and we have additional sections on Divisions Four & Five. Thank you for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 2 April

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the Premier Division, Rayleigh Town got the big win this weekend to stay in the title hunt, as they got a 3 – 1 triumph over rivals Hutton at London Road. Will Baldry, Liam Oliver and Harry Talbot all netted for Paul Higgins’ side as they stayed second. Stephen Judge got the reply for the visitors. Fellow Non-League writer Pete Dudley was there and his report can be viewed here: http://pedroslocalfootiefix.blogspot.com/2022/04/rayleigh-town-3-hutton-1.html

Elsewhere, Basildon Town remain third after a 3 – 1 victory over Kelvedon Hatch at Gardiners Lane. The trio of Graham Harrison, Rhys Fatt and James O’Brien got the goals for Marcus Bowers’ team there. They still have two games in hand on the top two with a four point deficit to make up. Sidney Walker netted for Kelvedon , who are in fifth spot. Leaders Ongar Town remain three points clear at the summit after a 5 – 1 success at bottom side Harold Wood Athletic. Joe Lilly netted twice for Richard Ponsford’s side here, with Harry Rawlins, Brandon Wood and an OG accounting for the other goals. Max London responded for Ath but they have six games left to overhaul a nine point deficit to third-bottom Galleywood. Speaking of Galleywood, they got a big 2 – 1 victory at Shenfield AFC, with Harry Bond and Tyler Tredgett netting for ‘Wood there.

Also, Leigh Ramblers got a massive three points by overcoming Old Southendian 3 – 0 at Belfairs. George Moxon, Tom Franks and Ryan Lowe (on his 200th appearance for the club) all netted for Mark Hunter’s team here. They have four games left to gather as many points as possible as all the sides below them have matches in hand on them. OS remain seventh. Finally, Catholic Utd had goals from Tom Elliott and replacement Joe O’Kane to thank for a 2 – 0 success at home to Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, which keeps them in sixth spot and a chance of a top-five finish. Swifts remain tenth.

In Division One, the only match was a big one which saw Epping Town grab a 3 – 2 triumph at rivals Beacon Hill Rovers, thanks to a fine treble by Joe Rickett. The win takes Epping six points clear of the bottom two. Rovers will need at least one win from their last two matches to avoid a bottom-two finish.

Moving into Division Two now, Hutton Res drew 1 – 1 with AS Rawreth in a big battle at the bottom of the division. Both teams remain in the bottom three, with Rawreth having one more match to play. There was a walkover win for Manford Way also, over bottom side Rochford Town which saw them rise back up to third spot. It’s worth noting also that all of the top four sides have three matches remaining.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three, Hashtag Utd Dev took a big step towards the title with a huge 10 – 1 triumph at Toby Res. The ensemble cast of goal-scorers for Denis Simpson’s included doubles for Shaun Warren, Matthew Gauci and Josh Jarvis with Samuel Pratt, Chandler Wray, Jake Smith and Bradley Bunker all adding one each to take them to the top, with three matches left. Also, Hullbridge Sports Res drew 3 – 3 with Corinthians Res at Lower Road. Jay Knight got two goals for Sports here, with Owen Barrett also scoring for the hosts.

Moving into Division Four, Springfield Res got a important 3 – 1 victory over Leytonstone Utd to remain second, with two games in hand on nearest rivals Ongar Town Res, who also got three points after a 2 – 1 victory at Southend Manor Dev, in a match played at Cupid’s. Hudson Lawrence scored for Manor’s side there. Elsewhere, Old Chelmsfordians Res secured a 3 – 2 win at home to Galleywood Res, thanks to Timothy King who struck two twice for OC’s second side, with Shane Pritchard also finding the net. Oliver Sadler and Lee Judd responded for the visitors but they remain third-bottom. There are as many as four teams who could finish in second spot and the OC side and Roydon have the most matches left (four each) to play.At the bottom, Canning Town Res rounded out their campaign with a 3 – 1 win at home to Shenfield AFC Res, to record their second win this term but it is most likely they will still finish bottom of the table.

In Division Five, Old Barkabbeyans drew 4 – 4 with top four side Herongate Athletic Res at Barking Abbey. The point means the hosts go up to sixth, but this was their last match of the season so they could yet be caught by the two teams immediately below them in the standings. Herongate have two matches left. There was a walkover win for Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res as well over Runwell Sports Res, which sent Swifts top by two points and ended the Runwell team’s season, in which they will finish fifth.

EOFL Cups

EOFL Senior Lge Cup – Semi-Finals

Harold Hill 1 – 2 Canning Town

Sungate p1 – 1 Corinthians ( Sungate won 6-5 on penalties)

EOFL Reserve Lge Cup

Wakering Sports Res 6 – 1 Chingford Athletic Res

EOFL Res Lge Trophy

May & Baker A 2 – 1 Leigh Town Res

EOFL Denny King Cup

Runwell Sports 2 – 1 Collier Row

Snaresbrook p1 – 1 Wakering Sports (Snaresbrook won 7 – 6 on penalties)

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 26 Mar) [EOFL 21/22 21.3.22]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 19 March. This weekend saw a promotion all but confirmed in Divisions Two & Four. The focus remains on the League action and we will have additional sections on Divisions Four & Five. Thank you for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 26 March

Image from Wakebury v Harold Hill earlier this campaign

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the Premier Division, Basildon Town gained ground on leaders Ongar Town (who were not in action this weekend) by claiming a narrow 2 – 1 victory at Sungate, with Rhys Fatt grabbing both goals for Marcus Bowers’ team. They are four points behind Ongar with two matches in hand. Rayleigh Town were held 1 – 1 by battling Leigh Ramblers at Belfairs, with Ryan Lowe netting for the Rams, and George Vile equalised from twelve yards for Town. Rayleigh remain second, but are three points adrift of the leaders, while the Rams rise one place to twelfth, but are one of four sides still in relegation danger. Another match with ramifications at both ends of the table saw Hutton emerge with a 4 – 1 triumph at Harold Wood Athletic, in another game played at Robert Clack 3G. Luke Ricketts struck twice for Matt Singh’s side, with James Gardner and replacement Abraham Eze also on target as they stayed fourth but in the title hunt with matches in hand. Harold Wood remain bottom, six points adrift of the third-bottom Galleywood.

Elsewhere, Old Southendian won their local derby with Catholic Utd 3 – 2, with Callum Ludlaim scoring two goals at Garon Park 3G, and Nick Henesy also netting as they went up to seventh spot with six matches remaining. Utd got their goals via Jack Thompson and player-boss Simon Thomas and stay ahead of their opponents by goal difference only, in sixth. Also, Springfield drew 2 – 2 with Canning Town in the early kick-off at Arun Park. Ryan Kelland and Reece Simpson scored for the hosts but Canning responded to claim a precious point and stay in touch with their rivals. Finally, Bishop’s Stortford Swifts drew 0 – 0 with Kelvedon Hatch, which means Swifts stay tenth and Kelvedon remain in fifth, twelve points clear of Catholic Utd and Old Southendian.

In Division One, the solitary match saw Toby grab a 3 – 0 win against strugglers Leigh Town in Newbury Park. The trio of Harry Barham, Albert Perry and Ben Picton all netted again for Mark Jones’ side to ensure the win which means a point in their last game next month will ensure a top-two finish, but a win would give them the title.

Moving into Division Two now, and ACD Utd took a big step towards the title after a narrow 1 – 0 win against May & Baker A at Westlands. Michael Wade’s 23rd league goal this term ensured the win which takes them five points clear at the summit, needing only five points to mathematically seal the league championship. That was because Harold Hill were held 3 – 3 at Shoebury Town. Player manager Garry Johnson, Kyle McAlindon and Cassidy Day all scored for Shoebury who rose to fifth with this decent result. AS Rawreth also got a vital win to aid their battle against relegation as they won 3 – 2 at home to Wakebury. Harry Kateley and Shaun Lewis-Evans replied for the Berries but their chances of a top-two finish took a dent here. Rawreth climb one spot to second-bottom after this victory.

Finally, Hutton Res were held 2 – 2 by Harold Wood Athletic Res at Polo Fields. Josh Portway got both strikes for the visitors there, who will probably be safe provided they grab one more win in their last three matches. The Hutton side will need as many points as possible as Rawreth behind them have an extra match left to play.

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

Into Division Three, and Wakering Sports Res have moved right into contention for a top-two finish after a brilliant 6 – 2 victory at leaders Catholic Utd Res. Scott Clark took his season’s goal tally to fourteen with a double here, with Ashley Sexton also netting two along with one goal each for the division’s top-scorer Connor Fardyga and Ciaran Sweeney. Daniel Williams got both goals for Utd’s second side as they will likely need to win their last three games to stay in contention. Third-placed Hashtag Utd Dev were held 3 – 3 at a spirited Basildon Town Res. Jack Main got two goals for Bas, with Nathan Fisher also on the score-sheet. Matthew Gauci, Tommy Green and Samuel Pratt’s 16th league goal this term meant that Denis Simpson’s side claimed a point which importantly keeps them only two points away from the top two and have one game in hand on both of them. Town will finish fourth after playing their last league game here and have a 12-point lead on their nearest challengers Pitsea Athletic.

Speaking of the newcomers, Buckhurst Hill U23 continued their fine form by defeating Pitsea Athletic 3 – 1 at Roding Lane, which meant Darren Gosnell’s side rise up to sixth spot, with three matches left to play. Also, Collier Row ended their campaign with a fine 2 – 1 win at Leigh Town Res. Despite this result, they will finish in the bottom two and will likely face relegation.

Now into Division Four, and Chingford Athletic Res sealed the title (for all intents & purposes) in style with a 7 – 2 win at nearest challengers Roydon. Nader Benzid and substitute Jack Bayley-Etheridge got the goals for Roydon here. The Ath second-side will be in Division Three next term and Springfield Res might yet join them there after a 5 – 2 triumph over Canning Town Res in the late kick-off meant they went level on points with Roydon but stay third. The ensemble cast of scorers included Liam England, Jordan Denyer, William Roe, substitute Reece Simpson and fellow replacement Thomas Bloomfield. The Town side look set for a demotion as they will be unable to avoid finishing bottom.

Elsewhere, Leytonstone Utd had a James Medlock goal to thank for a 1 – 0 success at home to Galleywood Res. The result means they have a decent chance of avoiding a bottom two finish but their rivals have matches in hand. Also, Ongar Town Res defeated Wakering Sports A 2 – 1 to go up to fourth in the table.

In the sixth tier, the season is rapidly approaching its conclusion, and leaders Leigh Ramblers Res ended their campaign with a narrow 1 – 0 victory at Runwell Sports Res. Alex Goodson’s seventh league goal gave them the win which for now keeps them at the summit, although they could yet be overhauled. One of those sides in prime position to do that is Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res, who won 3 – 0 at Wakebury Res. Callum Blair Park, Henry Harnack and Lewis Wake got the goals here which means one more win for the Swifts second-side will secure them the Division Five title. The Wakebury side will finish bottom as they completed their campaign here and after the game, Reece Upcraft stood down from his role as Wakebury Res boss, I’d like to wish him well for the future, he will be replaced next season by Joe Creak (Source: Wakebury’s Twitter).

Elsewhere, Herongate Athletic Res got a terrific 7 – 2 win against Collier Row Res at Billericay Road. Lee Glynn scored twice here, with the array of other scorers being Jack Sparrow, Kurt Smith, Thomas Northwood, Jonathan Packer and substitute Benjamin Clarke. Ath went up to fourth spot with this win and still have a chance of a top-three finish as they have three matches left. Emmanuel Akinte and Mark Lee scored for the Row side here. Also, Snaresbrook Res defeated AS Rawreth Res 5 – 0 at Nutters Lane to go up to sixth in the standings, while Epping Town Res got a walkover win against Old Barkabbeyans, meaning they will finish ninth as this was their last game of the term as well.

EOFL Denny King Cup Result

Old Chelmsfordians 1 – 2 Manford Way

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 12 Mar) [EOFL 21/22 14.3.22]

Issac Pascal (#11) leads Runwell on another forward press

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 12 March. This weekend saw a promotion confirmed in the match I saw first-hand. As ever, there was a number of competitions being played (the EOFL Senior Cup, Reserve League Cup, Ressie Trophy, Denny King Memorial Cup & Essex Premier Cup), our focus remains on the League action. This week, the focus is on the League action once again, and we will have additional sections on Divisions Three, Four & Five plus the Reserve League Cup.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 12 March

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

As ever, we begin with the Step 7 Premier Division. Ongar Town went four points clear at the summit with a 1 – 0 win over Shenfield AFC. Jake Chadwick got the crucial goal to ensure Richard Ponsford’s team added to the pressure for the chasing pack, most of which have games in hand looking to overhaul them. Rayleigh Town remain second on goal difference after an impressive 5 – 0 win at Galleywood. Club skipper George Vile scored twice for Paul Higgins’ side here, while Harry Higgins, Harry Talbot and Charlie Seaden all also netted. Basildon Town are level on points with Rayleigh in third after an excellent 6 – 0 triumph at home to Bishop’s Stortford Swifts. Ronnie Hobbrough scored twice for Bas, and the additional scorers included Graham Harrison, Rhys Fatt, Ryan Scougall and substitute Rhys Willson. Marcus Bowers’ side still have nine matches remaining.

Meanwhile, Catholic Utd went up to sixth after a 3 – 1 success at Springfield. Jay Nash maintained his scoring streak with a double here, and Franklin Craik added a late third. Lee Harris got a consolation for the hosts who remain 10th. Harold Wood Athletic got an important point as they drew 2 – 2 with fellow strugglers Canning Town. James Pottle and Billy Reed goals were cancelled out by Town replies by Alfie Fry and Napat Pattanawanitkikkul. Wood remain four points adrift at the bottom. Finally, Sungate defeated Leigh Ramblers 2 – 1 at Belfairs Park to fortify their seventh position.

In Division One, Runwell Sports finally confirmed their long sought-after place in Step 7 after a battling 1 – 0 win at Wakering Sports, in the match I attended this weekend. Skipper Oliver Quick got the only goal in a tense match though the celebrations post-match signified a dream realised for Chairman Jason Emery, with Runwell playing in the Premier Division next season for the first time in more than twenty years. If you’d like more on this match (including photos), then my report is available here: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/03/12/s21-22-match-report-wakering-sports-0-1-runwell-sports-sat-12-mar-eofl/

Wakering Sports still have three more matches to play as they duke it out with rivals Toby for the other likely promotion spot. Leigh Town also got a welcome win via walkover over Chingford Athletic, which sees them up to eighth spot. They have three matches to stay above the bottom two.

Moving into Division Two, Shoebury Town continued their good season with a 6 – 3 win at Hutton Res, in a match played at Hannakins Farm Community Centre 3G. Kian Bradshaw grabbed a fine treble to double his goal tally to six league goals this term. Kyle McAlindon, player-boss Garry Johnson and Daniel Brooker all also netted for the visitors, who remain sixth, two points adrift of Old Southendian Res. The Hutton scorers were Connor O’Regan with a double, plus one for Jack Shaw. They remain third-bottom with five matches left. Manford Way continued their good form with a 6 – 2 triumph at fellow top five side Old Southendian Res at Garon Park 3G. The ensemble cast of scorers here for Manford were David Alele, James Dobson, Joshua Owoaje, Dominic Esty-Wilkinson, Charlie Parish and an OG. The win saw them rise to third, three points adrift of Harold Hill in second. The Os side remain fifth.

In the other game in D2, Rayleigh Town Res had a Ebeneezer Djan treble to thank for a 3 – 0 victory at home to Harold Wood Athletic Res at London Road. The win takes them five points clear of their opponents here in eighth spot and seven points clear of the bottom three.

EOFL Senior League Cup Result – Toby 1 – 2 Harold Hill

EOFL Divisions Three, Four & Five

In Division Three, the one match that took place ended in a draw. Basildon Town Res were held 2 – 2 by visitors Wakering Sports Res. Louis Hill and Jamie Bradbourn netted for the Town side, with Connor Fardyga and Scott Clark responding for Wakering, who remain in the running for a top-three finish.

In Division Four, Chingford Athletic Res benefitted from a walk over win in their game with Leytonstone Utd, which took them ten points clear at the summit and only requiring two more wins to seal the title. Wakering Sports A defeated Springfield Res 3 – 1 to record a welcome win at Cupid’s. Paul Wines, Mekhi Weekes and Nathan Roche all netted for them, while Liam England replied for the visitors.

Finally, in Division Five, AS Rawreth Res were held 2 – 2 by Herongate Athletic Res at the Warren. Ethan Bird got both goals for the Rawreth side, with Lee Glynn and Samuel Tshiamala goals securing a point for Herongate.

EOFL Reserve League Cup

This week, we also have a bonus section on the Reserve League Cup. Buckhurst Hill U23’s secured their place in the next round after a fine 6 – 0 win at Bishop’s Stortford Swifts Res. Stefanos Ladoukakis led the way for Darren Gosnell’s side with a double here, with Louie Cooper, Luka Ferraglioni, Jacob Richards and Casey Lockhart also on target at Silver Leys. They will joined in the next round by Hashtag Utd Development, who won 3 – 0 at Collier Row Res, with Shaun Warren’s opener being added to late on by Samuel Pratt and replacement Jake Smith. Lastly in this competition this week, Toby Res edged to a good 4 – 3 win at Pitsea Athletic Res, with Oliver Dingli scoring twice for the Toby side, allied to goals from Alkan Ali and substitute Marsell Uba. Pitsea responded through Sean Devlin’s fine treble.

EOFL Reserve League Trophy

Catholic Utd Res 10 – 0 Shenfield AFC Res

Ongar Town Res 4 – 1 Corinthians Res

Snaresbrook Res A – W May & Baker A (May & Baker A Progress)

Sungate Dev 2 – 5 Leigh Town Res

EOFL Denny King Cup

Collier Row 6 – 0 Beacon Hill Rovers

Old Chelmsfordians 6 – 1 Wakebury

And Southend Manor Dev 2 – 4 Snaresbrook

Thanks again for reading.

S21-22 Match Report: Wakering Sports 0 – 1 Runwell Sports (Sat 12 Mar) [EOFL 21/22 12.3.22]

Essex Olympian League – Division One

Venue: Cupid’s (Main Pitch)

2021-22 Season: Match 61

Attendance: 35 (est)

Saturday 12th March 2022 – 2pm KO

Wakering: Blue Shirts, Blue Shorts, Blue Socks

Runwell: Grey Shirts, Yellow Shorts, Yellow Socks

Runwell clinch promotion with a battling win over Wakering

Wakering Sports 0 – 1 Runwell Sports

Match Report & Photos by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14]

This weekend, we remained in the Intermediate Leagues but with good purpose as we saw this big promotion six-pointer at Cupid’s Country Club, between hosts Wakering Sports and leaders Runwell Sports, who were playing their last league game here. Their job was clear, win this game and a top-two finish was assured. Wakering have three more games after this but knew they had to try and derail the Runwell side from winning this one to aid their cause. The hosts were without Connor and Ben Burrows, Matthew Catlin and Aaron Marshall but did have Matt Wilson in goal, captain Russell Beck and Alex Jenkins in central defence, with Ryan Wyatt, Joe Burton and top club scorer Alfie Fossett. Among those on the bench were Mo Sesay, Steve Solarin and Callum Burns-Green. Runwell fielded a strong side, with Josh Hudson between the posts, a defence of Charlie Little, Jordan Gregory and centre-backs Dylan Hawley and skipper Oliver Quick. The forwards were Jimmy Cox and Joe Olley, with wingers Gianni Frankis and Issac Pascal.

The match got underway with a torrent of tension with both side’s very keen to assert themselves to build a base from. Early on, Gianni Frankis had an early strike deflected wide for the visutors from about ten yards out. After a long stoppage on twelve minutes to assess a head injury to skipper Russell Beck, the hosts did get more into the contest as Runwell conceded a few niggly fouls. Chances were at a premium, though just shy of the half-hour there was a good chance for Rob Hodgson’s side. Hodgson himself headed the ball on to forward Joe Olley at the back post but Olley’s header lacked power and glanced agonizingly off-target.

Issac Pascal (#11, centre left) making another run down left flank for Runwell

However, it was the hosts who finished the half marginally stronger. A decent lob in the eighteen yard area from a central position from midfielder Ben Rowe kept visiting goalkeeper Josh Hudson alert and he grasped the ball well. Soon after, a set-piece from deep by centre-back Alex Jenkins was headed narrowly wide by an off-balance Runwell defender. For the neutral, it would’ve been an unfortunate OG to see, to say the least.

Wakering captain Russell Beck clears once again at edge of his own 18-yard area

Half-Time: Wakering Sports 0 – 1 Runwell Sports

The deadlock was pretty tight and in the early minutes of the second half, it showed little signs of fading. What was rising though was the free-kicks being conceded and players being booked as well. The game did badly need a goal and it duly arrived ten minutes after the restart. Issac Pascal had been one of the visitors’ stand-out players and only endorsed that view as his set-piece evaded the home backline and found his captain Oliver Quick who headed home well at the back post. It was a hard one to take, understandably so for the gritty Wakering defence.

Just before the hour, a decent move involving Wakering forwards Ryan Wyatt and Alfie Fossett down the left channel, ended with Fossett firing wide of Hudson’s left-sided post, much to the forward’s disappointment. Paul Morgan’s side admirably kept up the work rate but found Runwell’s defence in good form and giving away little in the way of chances. Midway through the half, a good run by substitute Mohammed Sesay ended with the ball finding spirited winger Aaron Clark but his finish lacked the direction and power to bypass Hudson.

With the hosts pushing forward in search of an important leveller, Runwell did have chances to put the game away, but after another good run, Pascal’s effort was parried well by Wilson, but Charlie Little was there following-up and was also well thwarted. Olley also headed wide following decent build-up play but in the end, one goal was enough to confirm Runwell’s promotion and they will play in Step 7 (EOFL Premier Division) for the first time in over twenty years.

Full-Time: Wakering Sports 0 – 1 Runwell Sports

In summary, yes it was a scrappy game at times but perhaps the emphasis on this match was there in both teams’ minds. Runwell did look the better side at times, but were prevented from playing their rapid game via the channels by a typically miserly Wakering Sports team mindset and defensive performance. Best not forget that Wakeri g also had their moments going forward as well, but couldn’t test a resolute Runwell backline enough either. There is little doubt that Paul Morgan’s team will go close, as they seek to pip Toby to that other promotion spot.

As ever, there were perfornances to commend here. First up for victors Runwell, winger Issac Pascal had an excellent game, providing a strong outlet down the left flank as well as good dribbling and pace. He also got a telling assist for the goal. Central midfielder Taylor Armstrong had a strong game with a all-action performance and forward Joe Olley contributed well to his side’s attack, showing good work rate and had several decent moments. Rounding out the mentions for Runwell is Charlie Little, pressed into action as an emergency right-back here but did a solid job and also got forward quite well in the latter stages.

For Wakering, winger Aaron Clark had a very good game, showing good energy, passing and movement, so credit to him. Daniel Regan did a good job in midfield, setting moves in motion and was a decent set-piece taker too. A mention also for skipper Russell Beck who continued admirably until the latter stages of the game even after sustaining a head wound in the early stages, needing a “Terry Butcher-style” bandage. Beck made several important interceptons too and assisted his team in keeping the match tight.

Best wishes to Wakering Sports for the rest of the campaign and congrats to Runwell on their promotion (see final picture). My thanks to both teams, was good to see them in action here.

Runwell team & management celebrate promotion post-match

Teams (Rolling Subs Used in EOFL matches)

Wakering Sports | Manager: Paul Morgan |

Starting XI: 1 Matt Wilson (GK), 3 Paul Brennan, 4 Russell Beck (Capt), 5 Alex Jenkins, 6 Max Drury, 7 Daniel Regan, 8 Ben Rowe, 2 Aaron Clark, 9 Ryan Wyatt, 10 Joe Burton, 11 Alfie Fossett

Subs On (Time): 16 Mohammed Sasay [60′], 15 Steve Solarin [71′], 17 Callum Burns-Green [71′], 12 Mitchell Gleeson [83′]

Booked: Drury, Regan, Burton, Sesay | Subs Not Used: None

Runwell Sports | Player-Manager: Rob Hodgson | Assistants: Jason Davis & Ian Read

Starting XI: 1 Josh Hudson (GK), 2 Charlie Little, 3 Jordan Gregory, 5 Dylan Hawley, 6 Oliver Quick (Capt), 4 Taylor Armstrong, 7 Gianni Frankis, 8 Robert Hodgson, 9 Jimmy Cox, 10 Joe Olley, 11 Issac Pascal

Goal-scorer: Oliver Quick [55′]

Sub On (Time & replaced): 12 Riley Armstrong [66′ on for Hodgson)

Booked: Cox, Olley, R Armstrong | Subs Not Used: Cramp, Offord, Watson

Referee: Stiofan Appleby

Guest Blog: Essex Alliance League Round-up (Wk 27 – Sat 5 Mar) [EAL 21-22 7.3.22]

Hello and welcome to the latest action from the Essex Alliance League, which continues on this blog this season under the “Guest Blog” strand. This edition looks at the action across the League divisions and action in the respective Divisional Cups on Saturday 5 March. My thanks to the EAL’s Rob Parker. This round-up is posted with the author’s permission. Thanks for reading.

Guest Blog written by Rob Parker for EAL [EAL Twitter: @EssexAllianceFL]

With additional reporting by Scott W

Essex Alliance League Round-up- Saturday 5 March

COUNTY CUP

Despite the inclement weather, it was a glorious afternoon for Woodford East on Saturday as the league’s remaining representatives in the BBC Essex Saturday Premier Cup took their place in the final with a terrific display against Clapton Community at Wadham Lodge. All the goals were scored in the first half as Halil Hassan’s side won 3 – 1, setting up a mouthwatering final against Essex Olympian League Premier Division side Catholic United on 13^th April at Billericay Town.

DIVISION THREE CUP

The only other surviving cup tie at the weekend saw Glendale make the trip to Romford to face Flyers Under 23s in quarter final action, the winners confirming their place in the last four. Two first half Dales goals from Zack Clark and Mo Mboupe put them ahead with a Flyers goal early in the second half pulling one back but the Dales held on to win 2 – 1 and go through to the last four.

SENIOR DIVISION

Another weather impacted weekend meant that only one Senior Division game could proceed which saw a goal-filled encounter at Lakeside as FC Baresi hosted DT FC. The visitors were in sparkling form in front of goal, winning 11 – 0 to restore their lead at the top of the division going into the final eight games of the campaign. Kazim Bishop netted six goals on his own here, with Alex Paraskeva scoring a treble and Robbie Farrell got two goals to round off DT’s joint-highest ever win.

PREMIER DIVISION

In the Premier Division, Dagenham United moved level on points at the top of the table with a solid 6 – 1 win at home against Athletic Newham Under 23s at Castle Green. Shaquille Martin was the main man with a hat-trick for this side with Ancuba Cassama, Chris Mascall and Charlie Fiander also finding the net. Chris Barbosa got the solitary reply for the Newham development side.

Also at the top end of the table Crookz United secured another three point haul but had to do things the hard way, coming from 2 – 0 down against North East Lions to win 3 – 2 and enhance their promotion credentials. Shane Thomas and Tashan Benjamin both struck for Lions but their efforts proved in vain as Luke Stewart, Stephane Trah and Abdouaziz Jeng netted in reply for United. It was three wins from three for the promotion chasing sides as Wapping also secured victory with a 2 – 0 home win against London Park City in Hackney. That result enabled the hosts to stay third in the table, picking up a ninth league win of the season in the process and will games in hand still on the side immediately above.

DIVISION ONE

The goals were once again flying in down in Division One where Belfry put continued their excellent league form this season with a hard fought 4 – 2 win against Renegade at Hainault Rec. The James’, Kieran and Warren, were both on target, adding to efforts from Gabriel Ogunwomoju and Daniel Osborne. The theme of four was also witnessed at London Playing Fields where Ilford Reserves put in a top performance to defeat Wanstead in a 4 – 0 scoreline, bouncing back to winning ways. Ollie Miracco scored twice with Rio Clements and Mario-Angelino Lipetz one apiece to help their side move three points clear of their opponents in fourth.

Completing the division’s action, another game of fours as Kwanzas London Sport and Newham Wanderers scored four apiece in a 4 – 4 draw in Beckton. Nuno Dentampol scored a brace, adding to efforts for Wahid Hussain and Robertson Morais for Wanderers as the sides shared the spoils, the teams staying a couple of points apart in the league.

DIVISION TWO

In Division Two, the leaders, Unitey, lost the opportunity to extend their lead at the top as they slipped to a narrow 3 – 2 defeat against Rainham Working Mens Club in a five goal thriller. Bubintende Masadi and Ahmed Dousa got on the Unitey scoresheet but Rainham efforts from Nick Tormey, Connor Kain and Sean Tormey sent the points home with the visitors. Another side who were involved in a surprise result were fourth placed Fairlop Rovers who fell to an away defeat against Redbridge Community who made it three games undefeated with a 5 – 3 win. That result took the team to eighteen points, giving them plenty of hope to avoid the drop this season in the process.

There were two big results affecting things towards the bottom as Ryan Under 23s all but assured themselves of safety in the division with a 3 – 0 home win against St Francis at Wadham Lodge 3G. That kept the Chingford-based side on a good run of form, their seventh win of the season, taking them to twenty-three points while Saints continue their search for crucial league points.

DIVISION THREE

Just one game survived the deluge in Division Three which saw a tight game take place between bottom of the table Terin and a promotion chasing Royal Forest Reserves at Oaks Park High School. Alex Thomas and Suheil Shekh found the net for Terin but those goals proved insufficient as Robert Evans scored twice and Jack Warren once to take the Trees to a 3 – 2 win, moving them second in the standings.

DIVISION FOUR

The sole game in Division Four was a big one affecting the top of the table as Chingford Harriers ensured they stay top of the pile with a 4 – 1 home win against Avondale Rangers in the early game at Peter May. Jake Clarke scored for Rangers but two Harriers goals in reply for Darnell Lamothe plus strikes from Alex Diner and Suleman Yusuf were enough to take their side to an important win.

S21-22 Round-ups: Essex Olympian League (Sat 5 Mar) [EOFL 21/22 7.3.22]

Written by Scott W [Twitter: @ScottMHC14] – Non-League & EOFL Writer

Hello all and welcome to my round-up of the action in the Essex Olympian League, on Saturday 5 March. This weekend saw a large number of postponements, unsurpriningly down to the miserable weather Essex has had this week. As ever, there was a number of competitions being played (the EOFL Senior Cup, Reserve League Cup, Ressie Trophy, Denny King Memorial Cup & Essex Premier Cup), our focus remains on the League action. This week, EOFL clubs were grateful for the virtue of artificial pitches with several matches moved, We have action from the top three tiers, plus we have sections on Essex Premier Cup & Division Five.

Main Image is from my featured match this week: Rochford Town 0 – 2 Manford Way, a link to that report is mentioned later. Many thanks for reading.

Essex Olympian Lge – Saturday 5 March

EOFL Premier Division, Divisions One & Two

In the top-tier, all three games that got played were on artificial pitches. At Garon Park, Basildon Town got a fine 5 – 2 win over Old Southendian. Rhys Fatt and Graham Harrison both scored two goals each and Ryan Scougall also netted for Marcus Bowers’ side, who went up to fourth spot – four points adrift of leaders Ongar with three matches in hand. OS got their goals from Mitchell Ali and Jack Lelliott, but this loss meant they dropped one place to ninth.

Both of the other games were rare goalless draws for this division. Hutton were held 0 – 0 by Kelvedon Hatch in a match moved to Hannakins Farm Community Centre 3G. Hutton fell to fifth but still have two games more to play than the leaders to catch up the four point deficit. Shenfield AFC were also held 0 – 0 by Bishop’s Stortford Swifts, which saw AFC move up to eighth while Swifts are five points clear in eleventh.

Division One saw just the one match irrespective of the weather, as Beacon Hill Rovers climbed out of the bottom two with a 2 – 1 triumph over Herongate Athletic. Lee Henry netted for Herongate in what was their final league game of the campaign, their rivals in Rovers, Leigh Town and Snaresbrook all have four games to overhaul their tally of 17 points, which does make Herongate vulnerable to demotion.

There was two matches this week in Division Two. ACD Utd extended their lead at the summit to six points with a comfortable 3 – 0 victory at May & Baker A. Michael Wade’s 22nd league goal of the season allied with strikes by Warren Taylor and Ollie Williams meant they left Dagenham with the win. Greg Knock’s side know they need a maximum of ten points from their remaining four matches to confirm the Division Two title. Also, in a match reversed to Rochford Recreation Ground, Manford Way had to work hard to grab a 2 – 0 victory against Rochford Town in the match I saw this weekend. Harry Davison and Salum Said got the goals to seal the win that keeps Manford in the hunt for a top-three finish at least. If you’d like more on this match, here’s my report: https://survivor16b.wordpress.com/2022/03/05/s21-22-match-report-rochford-town-0-2-manford-way-sat-5-mar-eofl

EOFL Senior League Cup – Canning Town 2 – 2 Epping Town (Canning won 4 – 3 on penalties)

Essex Premier Cup – Semi-Finals

In what features a crossover with the Essex Alliance League, we now know who will contest the Final of the EPC on April 13th. There was guaranteed to be an Olympian League representative and Catholic Utd emerged with a hard-fought 2 – 1 victory at Sungate. Strikes by Harrison Day and Jay Nash meant that Simon Thomas’ team will make it to the Premier Cup Final once again. Their opponents will be EAL Senior Division side Woodford East, who got an impressive 3 – 1 win at Clapton CFC. It is right to respect also what has been a superb run to the last four for CFC, but a James Briggs penalty wasn’t enough to get the Middlesex County Premier Division side back into the contest. The Final will be played at Billericay Town’s New Lodge, it should be a fascinating match. Congrats to both finalists.

EOFL Divisions Four Results

Canning Town Res 0 – 1 Ongar Town Res

Chingford Athletic Res 4 – 1 Southend Manor Dev

Leytonstone Utd 3 – 2 Wakering Sports A

Shenfield AFC Res 5 – 3 Sungate Dev

EOFL Division Five

In Division Five, Old Barkabbeyans are chasing a top-five finish now after a 3 – 1 victory at home to AS Rawreth Res. Lucas Winzar netted for Rawreth, but strikes by Jay Elliott, Jordan Mullings and Sean Doyle ensured Old Barks gained ground on the sides above them, with three matches remaining.

EOFL Reserve League Cup

Finally, in the Ressie League Cup, Wakering Sports Res went through after a 4 – 1 home win over Rayleigh Town Res at Cupid’s. The ensemble cast of Connor Fardyga, Scott Clark, Ciaran Sweeney and Charlie Smith all netted for the Sports second-side.

Thanks again for reading.